RCM Junior Department Prospectus

Royal College of Music, London

H

junior department nurturing potential

CONTENTS H

H

junior department nurturing potential

Welcome

1

Overview

3

Programme Individual Lessons Chamber Music Orchestra Musicianship Choir Alexander Technique Aural Performance Support & Assessment

6 6 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 12

Special Programmes Mini-Bass Course Visually Impaired Musicians Scheme

14 14 16

Fees & Bursaries

18

How to Apply

20

Frequently Asked Questions

22

HOW TO Contact Us

Back Page

H WELCOME

welcome

“

The Royal College of Music Junior Department is an environment of great enthusiasm, opportunity and enjoyment. Come through the doors on a Saturday and you will find the whole place buzzing with the excitement of music making at a high level.

You will be inspired by the sound of individual lessons, ensembles and classes taking place in every corner of the building. Our students come together from all over the UK to enjoy a tailor-made programme of outstanding individual lessons, chamber music, musicianship, orchestral and choral training.

If you want to make the most of your musical ability, we are here to help you.

We are committed to nurturing potential and offer a warm, creative yet disciplined environment in which you will flourish. Enthusiasm, energy, focus and dedication are prominent features of our department in students and staff alike, so if this appeals to you, read through the following brochure to find out more about how you could be a part of the Royal College of Music Junior Department.

Miranda Francis | Head of Junior Programmes

“

”

My time at the RCM Junior Department was a crucial part of my training as a young musician. I loved having the opportunity to make music at a high level with other young people and my collaboration with such fellow exhibitioners as John Lill played a large part in shaping my musical future.

Julian Lloyd Webber | Cellist and former RCMJD student

one

”

“

A

great programme run in an

outstanding way

Parent

�

H overview

overview Nurturing Potential Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCMJD) is a specialist term-time only Saturday school offering advanced training to musicians between the ages of 8 and 18. Students combine studying at RCMJD with their general education at their chosen week-day school. Students come together at the RCM London each Saturday for a tailor-made programme of individual instrument/voice/composition lessons, chamber music, orchestral and choral training, and general musicianship. Our staff are professional performers/composers as well as teachers and offer the highest standards of tuition and coaching.

Who can apply?

You can apply if you will be aged 8-17 in the September of the year you start, and show above average musical ability for your years in classical or jazz styles. We’re looking for potential and commitment. Students travel to RCMJD from all over the country and at the end of a week of school a full Saturday at RCMJD can be hard work. If you’re unsure as to whether this would suit you or not, why not come and experience a day with us? Visit days can be arranged on term-time Saturdays from November to February by contacting the RCMJD office.

three

When is it?

RCMJD operates between 9am and 5pm each Saturday during term time, though a more compact timetable may be available for our youngest students. There are three terms, each of 10 teaching weeks, with a half-term break in each. We do our best to ensure that these terms correspond as closely as possible with the majority of schools.

What is on offer?

RCMJD offers an individually-tailored programme of one-to-one instrument/ voice/composition lessons, chamber music, orchestra, choir and class musicianship.

Alexander Technique and aural classes are also available. Additionally there are many performance and competition opportunities throughout the year, both internally and externally. Instrumental grade exams may be taken externally in consultation with teachers, and theory exams are an important part of the musicianship curriculum. Each element is discussed in more detail in the following pages.

“

I have had so

many opportunities

and so much fun at Junior College and have made

friends for life in a really supportive and constructive environment Student four

�

H overview

Where is it?

RCMJD has exclusive use of the Royal College of Music each Saturday. The RCM is located in South Kensington – a cultural hub of London. It is directly opposite the world-famous Royal Albert Hall, adjacent to the Royal College of Art and Imperial College, London, and just moments away from the renowned museums of South Kensington: the Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Science Museum. The RCM is one of 16 local cultural institutions which make this area a unique meeting point for the arts and sciences that welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds. For more information see www.exhibitionroad.com

How do I apply?

We demand energy, hard work and enthusiasm from all our students and staff. If you think you’ve got what it takes, apply by 1 March of the year in which you wish to start (entry in September only).

Entry is competitive by audition. For more details see How to Apply on page 20.

Why should I apply?

Studying at the highest level under inspirational teachers, and making music with other young people of similar age and ability gives our students a breadth of musical opportunity and understanding that is unrivaled. Our best ambassadors are our students and parents – read their comments throughout this brochure to hear their views. You can also come and visit us and talk to current students and parents. Visit days can be arranged on term-time Saturdays from November to February by contacting the RCMJD office.

five

programme Individual Lessons At the centre of the RCMJD curriculum is the first study (your main instrument, which may also be voice or composition), A second study is optional, and study of piano is encouraged but not essential. The default length for first study lessons is 45 minutes, and 30 minutes for second study. Longer lessons are available at extra cost (see separate fees sheet). First study Jazz instrumentalists are encouraged to support their studies with classical tuition and musicianship.

“

Being able to interact, socialise with and work with other young musicians allowed me to

expand my musical knowledge and

enjoyment inspiration encouraged me to work hard hugely and the

teaching I received fed my

to fulfil my musical aspirations

Student six

�

and

H PROGRAMME

“

A simply

wonderful institution,

a hugely life-enhancing experience for all the

priceless staff,

fortunate students who attend

Parent Our teachers, who include RCM professors and other distinguished musicians, are all highly qualified and experienced leaders in their field (see enclosed list for details). Students are expected to devote a considerable amount of time each week to practice, as advised by teachers, in order to gain the best possible benefit from the tuition offered.

If you learn with an RCMJD teacher, it is expected that they will be your only teacher, though participation in masterclasses and other one-off events is encouraged after consultation with RCMJD teachers.

A third instrument is not normally recommended for reasons of time. However, harpsichord or organ for pianists, orchestral wind instruments for recorder players and saxophone for clarinettists may be considered suitable. Composition may be a suitable third study, particularly for GCSE and AS/A2 level students, and class-taught composition is also available as part of musicianship studies.

All elements of the curriculum as well as all written and spoken correspondence are delivered in English. It is therefore essential that all students and parents have a good grasp of both written and spoken English.

�

warm, “ supportive, A

and

inspiring

place to study

Student

eight

�

H PROGRAMME

Chamber Music (including Early Music & Jazz) Chamber Music is regarded as a fundamental element in the training of young musicians in the RCMJD. We have over 70 chamber groups including the following: H String Quartets H Piano Trios H Piano Groups H Violin Groups H Cello Groups H Bass Groups

H Wind Quintets H Wind Octet H Clarinet Choir H Recorder Ensemble H Saxophone Ensemble H Brass Ensemble

H Brass Dectet H Percussion Ensemble H Harp Ensemble H Guitar Ensemble H Baroque Ensembles H Jazz Ensembles

Groups meet for an hour or more each week and there are many performance and coaching opportunities both inside and outside the college, including collaborations with players from other London Junior Departments. We encourage our students, where appropriate, to take part in music making outside the RCMJD both locally and nationally.

Orchestra The RCMJD has five orchestras and places are allocated according to the student’s age, orchestral ability and progress. All orchestras have a team of tutors to assist in full rehearsals and sectionals. The orchestras are: H Symphony Orchestra H Chamber Orchestra H Sinfonia

H String Orchestra H Symphonic Wind Orchestra

Musicianship All students take part in weekly musicianship classes which help to increase perception and knowledge of music and encourage creative responses to it. These classes provide a thorough grounding in listening skills, aural, contextual awareness and active performance, and they support all other elements of the curriculum.

All students are required to take ABRSM Theory Grade 6 and afterwards may choose to take classes in composition and improvisation or continue with higher theory grades. In addition, classes for Year 12 and 13 students are available to help prepare for entrance to conservatoire and university music courses and to support AS and A2 work at school. nine

PROGRAMME H

Choir Choral singing is an integral part of the RCMJD curriculum for all. It develops aural awareness, vocal technique and general musical perception. The RCMJD has five choirs catering for varying ages, voices and abilities:

H Chamber Choir H Mixed Choir H Girls’ Choir

H Treble Choir H Training Choir

Alexander Technique Free classes (taken in pairs and subject to timetabling) in Alexander Technique are also available on Saturdays by special request and teacher recommendation.

RCMJD has two Alexander Technique teachers.

Aural For those preparing for ABRSM exams grades 6-8 the RCMJD offers free Aural Test coaching by request (subject to timetabling).

Performance Each week a Performers Platform provides opportunities for students to perform solo or ensemble works in front of an informal audience (accompanist provided).

Experienced tutors give performance feedback as well as tips and techniques.

Regular competitions, adjudicated by leading professionals in the music world, provide valuable experience and exposure for students who take part. Over 25 regular concerts per year showcase the ongoing work of our orchestras and ensembles including an annual Symphony Orchestra concert at St John’s, Smith Square. Our musicians are also regularly invited to perform outside the RCMJD for special concerts and events.

ten

“

The junior department has

always been a joy to us.

In particular, collecting the children at the end of their sixth full day of the week and seeing how

alive and vibrant they are as a result of a day spent

following a passion in likeminded company Parent

eleven

�

PROGRAMME H

Support & Assessment At RCMJD we pride ourselves on the high level of individual care and support we offer to our students and are always alert to each individual’s aims and achievements. In return we expect a high level of commitment and personal responsibility from students and parents alike. All our staff are willing to help and advise where necessary and a Director’s Surgery each Saturday ensures that those wishing to discuss particular issues have the opportunity to do so. Students are assessed regularly and reports given twice each academic year. All Year 12 students will have a one-to-one interview with the Director to discuss their career plans and life after RCMJD. Whilst many of our students go on to study music at universities and conservatoires both in the UK and abroad, a good number choose alternative careers, and career support is always on hand.

“

We’re amazed

at how you manage to treat such a

large number of

very diverse children as

individuals!

twelve

Parent

”

“

grow,

A big thank you to all the staff who have helped me to

not just as a musician,

but as a person,

during my four years at Junior Department

Student

�

thirteen

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES Mini-Bass Course The Mini-Bass course is our pioneering scheme for beginners aged between eight and ten. A fully-insured instrument is provided for practice purposes at home. Established in 1985 in association with the Yorke Trust, this exciting initiatitive allows students to learn double bass on specially-designed instruments in individual lessons and small groups. Tuition also encompases basic theory and ensemble work. Most students will proceed to the RCMJD as full members in due course.

Who can apply?

Students are accepted from the age of eight (occasionally six or seven) on the basis of a short and straightforward musical aptitude test, and must also show a keenness to learn.

What is on offer?

Students are given a 30-minute individual lesson and will also take part in a 30-minute group session during which they study basic music theory through a carefully tailored and accessible scheme of work. Mini-Bass students can also take part in a choir (1 hour) and, when ready, an orchestra (up to 1 hour 15 minutes). Students may extend their programme to include second study lessons and/or further musicianship classes by arrangement with the Director. After 3 or 4 years, a Mini-Bass student is usually at a level to audition successfully as a full member of the RCMJD.

fourteen

H SPECIAL PROGRAMMES

“

Saturdays were always the

highlight of his week – as well as hard work, there was clearly a lot of

fun and laughter!

Parent

When is it?

Like the RCMJD as a whole, the Mini-Bass course takes place between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays during term time, though the course will not fill all those hours and timetables will be kept as compact as possible for our youngest students.

Where is it?

At the RCM (see OVERVIEW page 5).

How do I apply?

To apply for the Mini-Bass scheme please fill out the application form enclosed putting “Mini-Bass” in the first study field and if you are a total beginner, put “0” for the number of years you have been learning . If you currently play an instrument, note it down under second study and don’t forget to tell us how long you’ve been learning. Don’t worry if you can’t complete every section. For more general information on how to apply as well as the closing date for applications, see the How to Apply section on page 20.

Students on the Mini-Bass scheme have gone on to play in some of the world’s top orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra.

fifteen

”

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES Visually Impaired Musicians Scheme The RCMJD Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme (VIMS) provides an opportunity for motivated visually impaired students of all musical abilities from beginner to advanced to study music in an exciting and supportive environment. Students are taught by leading specialists for one-to-one lessons as well as group work.

A key element is the use of and training on specially developed computer technology for the visually impaired. The scheme aims to build confidence, discipline and self-motivation through accomplishment in music. These life-long skills are especially important to young people with a visual impairment. Students from the course have gone on to study full-time degree courses at Conservatoires and Universities.

Who can apply?

Any visually impaired young person between the ages of 8 and 17 may apply.

Beginners must be 12 or under though more experienced musicians may be accepted up to the age of 17. You must have a strong desire to learn music and should have good natural rhythm and pitch. All students will be interviewed and assessed on the basis of a short musical aptitude test and, where appropriate, performance on their main instrument.

sixteen

H SPECIAL PROGRAMMES

What is on offer?

Specialist tuition from RCMJD teachers and Musicians in Focus – one of Europe’s leading providers of information and support for visually impaired music students and professionals – coupled with cutting-edge technology provides an unrivalled training ground for visually impaired musicians. We offer an individually tailored timetable of one-to-one instrumental lessons, music theory and notation classes, choral training, keyboard skills, rhythm and pitch training, and music technology.

The skills gained through the technology encompass all areas of study for the future, regardless of subject.

When is it?

Like the RCMJD as a whole, the Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme takes place between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays during term time though a more compact timetable may be available for our youngest students.

Where is it?

At the RCM (see overview on page 5). VIMS students have access to our Assistive Technologies Suite where they can work with cutting-edge technology for the visually impaired.

How do I apply?

To apply for the Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme and for more information please contact Jacqueline Clifton in the first instance. If emailing please copy in the RCMJD office on jd@rcm.ac.uk Jacqueline Clifton, Director – Musicians in Focus 6 Hafod Street, Cardiff, CF11 6RA Tel: 029 2023 1113 jackie@musiciansinfocus.org For more information about Musicians in Focus, please see their website at www.musiciansinfocus.org

H If you require this information in large type

or Braille please contact the RCMJD office on 020 7591 4334 or email jd@rcm.ac.uk seventeen

fees & bursaries H

Fees & Bursaries The enclosed sheet gives details of next year’s fees. Please note that it is our intention that students who are successful at audition should not be prevented from coming to RCMJD through financial hardship.

Those needing support may apply for a bursary from RCMJD. These are means tested and allocated according to financial need by an independent committee. Parents wishing to apply should request more information by ticking the appropriate box on the application form. Please note that the Bursary form may require you to have made applications to other funders in addition to RCMJD application.

We are extremely grateful that the RCMJD bursaries are supported by the Royal College of Music, the Wolfson Foundation, the Worshipful Company of Drapers, the Leverhulme Trust, the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, the H R Taylor Trust and the Elsa and Leonard Cross Charitable Trust. HM Government’s Music & Dance Scheme funding initiative also supports around ten percent of our students. We are also grateful to the large number of schools, local authorities, business and organisations who independently support the studies of many students.

In particular we would like to recognise with gratitude the Musicians’ Benevolent Fund, Awards for Young Musicians, and Miss E B Wrightson’s Charitable Trust.

“

The relationship that

developed with my teachers

invaluable,

was as was working alongside some of the

‘next-generation’s’ top musicians Student

eighteen

”

H FEES & BURSARIES

“

Being able to interact, socialise with and work with other young musicians allowed me to

expand my musical knowledge and

enjoyment

Student

nineteen

hugely

�

How to Apply Entry to the RCMJD is by audition in March/April for entry in September the same year. This is our only audition period, though we may offer auditions outside this period in exceptional circumstances.

The closing date for applications is 1 March for entry in September the same year.

(For example the closing date for applications for September 2013 is 1 March 2013).

An application form is enclosed with this brochure. You can request further copies by contacting the RCMJD office, or download it from our website www.rcm.ac.uk/junior.

Please fill in ALL the fields on the application form and if you want to leave any part of it blank please make it clear that you meant to do that.

With your completed application form you will need to send us: H A recent passport-size photograph H A cheque for the stated audition fee made payable to ‘Royal College of Music’

and clearly marked with the applicant’s name on the reverse

How old do I need to be to apply?

Students are admitted from the age of eight upwards and normally remain in the RCMJD until the end of secondary schooling, provided that they continue to merit their place. Students are normally admitted for a minimum of two years’ study. If you are interested in studying for one year only, please contact the RCMJD office before applying. Please note that we do not normally admit Gap Year students, and that if you want to apply as a first study singer, you should be at least 14 years old for reasons of vocal maturity.

twenty

H HOW TO APPLY

How good do I have to be to get in?

Entry is subject to audition. Present attainment and potential, the number of places available for each instrument and suitability for the course are all taken into consideration. You don’t need to have taken exams, but as a rough guide, your first study should be roughly ABRSM Grade 5 distinction level, at the age of 11.

On instruments often started at a later age, particularly viola, bassoon, horn, trombone, tuba, harp, organ and double bass, a different level may be acceptable.

If in doubt please contact the RCMJD.

What do I have to do for the audition?

The audition may be one or two-stage and you will be advised of specific requirements at the time of application. You should be prepared for: H Principal instrument*: two short contrasting pieces H Second instrument* (if you play one): one short piece H Sight reading: on the principal instrument only H Aural tests H Musical Discussion

* Composers will be required to submit scores in advance.

The audition panel will discuss your general musical interests with you.

You must use the official accompanist and will have time to reherse with him/her before audition. The decision of the audition panel is final and though feedback will be provided in the letter we send you after audition, we are unable to enter into further correspondence about results.

When do I know if I’ve been offered a place?

Results are sent directly to your parents as soon as possible after the audition period. If you accept an offer of a place you will then be asked to complete a short written paper to help us put you in the most suitable musicianship class.

frequentlY asked questions

Do you have open days?

We offer specific Saturdays on which you can visit RCMJD to observe open rehersals, classes and informal performances, tour the building, and speak to staff, current students and parents. Particularly if you are unsure whether to apply, our Visit Days are a friendly and informal way to get to know more about what we do and to see our dedicated and hard-working students and teaches in action. Visit Days are by application only – please see www.rcm.ac.uk/junior for more information.

How amazing do I have to be?

Entry is competitive and every young musician is different so this is a tough question. However, we’ve provided some guidance in the How to Apply section on page 20. If appropriate, ask your teacher as they will have the best idea of how you’re doing as a musician. Alternatively, come and visit us and decide for yourself!

I’m not sure I can afford it – is there any financial help available?

It is our aim that students who are successful at audition should not be prevented from coming to RCMJD by financial hardship. Please see the Fees & Bursaries section on page 18 for more information.

I don’t play the piano either as a first or second instrument. Does that matter?

No, though we’d encourage you to take it up as keyboard skills are always useful to every musician. twenty two

H FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I only play one instrument.

Can I still come to RCMJD? Of course! There are a number of studies where we might encourage you to play an additional instrument if you wanted to but it is not a requirement and will not compromise you at audition if you do not. Situations in which we might encourage a second instrument (depending on age and development) are: Piano – 1st study pianists may be encouraged to play an alternative (orchestral) instrument so that they may take part in orchestras; Composition – 1st study composers may be encouraged to play an instrument to allow them to take part in ensemble activities; Singers – 1st study singers are particularly encouraged to learn piano.

I’m great at my first instrument but I’ve only just started my second instrument.

Will this disadvantage me at audition?

Not at all! It’s potential we’re looking for, and it’s the first instrument we care most about so don’t let that worry you. Well done for being adventurous and trying something new!

I don’t read music and only play/sing/compose by ear. Can I still come to RCMJD? Reading music is a very important skill for musicians of every style and level.

If your playing/singing/composing is exciting and musical then it shouldn’t be a problem at audition, but we would expect you to learn to read music at the earliest opportunity, and be keen and hard working enough to do so.

“strong friendships,

I am so thankful for my time at JD since I have made some been given some

wonderful opportunities and I’m sure it will stand me in good stead for the future

Student twenty three

”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS H

I’m only little! Please can I do just half a day?

We do not offer a half-day curriculum as such. However, each student has an individually crafted timetable and we will of course try and give our youngest students as compact a day as possible.

Isn’t this only for people who want to go on to study at a conservatoire?

Absolutely not! Whilst most of our students go on to study at conservatoire, or music at university, recent graduates of the RCMJD have gone on to a variety of different courses and careers such as engineering, languages, medicine and even rocket science! The aim of the RCMJD is that by the time you leave aged 18 you will be of a standard that allows you to apply successfully to study at conservatoire if you want to. Advice on what you do with your future is on hand every step of the way, and you will have a private interview with the Director when you are in Year 12 to discuss your career options.

“unique environment We have never ceased to be impressed by the and talent of staff and pupils in the

dedication

that makes up the RCMJD.

Students leave with a

wealth of musical ability

experience

that will and stand them in good stead wherever their career paths may lead Parent

twenty four

”

“

I have

warm memories

of my time here: the

stimulating atmosphere, wall-to-wall music,

inspiring teachers and friendships made have all been

very special

Student

�

twenty five

It’s a very special “musical community ” I recommend JD to any musical family or child –

Parent

H

junior department nurturing potential

The RCMJD Office is open 11am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday and 8am to 5pm on term-time Saturdays. If you want to come and visit us in person, please let us know.

Royal College of Music Junior Department Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BS T: 020 7591 4334 E: jd@rcm.ac.uk W: www.rcm.ac.uk/junior Design: Splash of Paint©2009 www.splashofpaint.com. Colour photography: Geraint Lewis©2009 The Royal College of Music prospectus is printed on environmentally friendly paper. It is fully recycled, biodegradable, Elemental Chlorine Free and both NAPM approved and ISO 14001 certified.